Christmas In Hawaii

Day 1

ARRIVE KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII (“THE BIG ISLAND”)

Your Christmas in Hawaii walking adventure begins with a flight from the Mainland (not included) to the Kona Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. Upon arrival, you’ll have the balance of the day to enjoy the South Sea ambiance from our hotel, situated directly on the water. Because travelers are arriving from the Mainland throughout the day, the only group activity planned is a Welcome Reception this evening.

Day 2

ACTIVITIES FROM KAILUA-KONA (B)
Kailua–Kona Waterfront Stroll – 10 km, rated 1

We’ll start slow this morning with an easy 10 km walk along the coast, sponsored by the Menehune Marchers walking club from Oahu. This afternoon you are invited to join us for a fascinating exploration of the Kona coast that includes a visit to the dreamy palm-studded seascapes of the Place of Refuge, where Hawaiians could escape the harsh justice of the Kapu system. On the return trip, we’ll visit a coffee plantation to learn firsthand how famous Kona beans are grown.

Day 3

KAILUA-KONA – HILO (B,L)
Valley of the Kings Walk – 10 km, rated 4

We depart for the Hilo side of the Big Island this morning with a memorable stop en route to explore the remote and majestically overgrown Waipio Valley, legendary Valley of the Kings. The descent to the valley floor is a steep paved road offering magnificent views of this one-time playground of Hawaiian royalty. Once we reach the floor of the “Valley of the Kings,” our walk takes us along a remote Hawaiian black sand beach and through the lushness of old Hawaii on a dirt road frequented only by hikers, wild horses, and 4-wheel drive vehicles. Be prepared to cross knee-deep Waipio Creek and walk through or around tropical-sized puddles. A 4-wheel drive van may be available to transport walkers for a less strenuous 5 km option along the valley floor. Following the walk, we’ll enjoy lunch together at a typically laid-back Hawaiian country diner.

Day 4

ACTIVITIES FROM HILO (B)
Volcanoes Nat’l Park Craters Walk – 12 km, rated 3+/4

Today’s activities begin at Volcanoes National Park, site of a 12 km walk offering rare opportunities to wander through the wonders of Kilauea Volcano, the most active volcanic system on the planet! Our route takes us along the rim of Kilauea Caldera, legendary home of Pele, “Goddess of Fire.” We cross the steam-vented lava floor of the Kilauea Iki Crater, walk through Thurston Lava Tube, and stand among groves of giant tropical ferns. Afternoon options include a scenic drive along the lunar-like Chain of Craters Road to observe the lava flows (if active), best viewed at twilight.

Day 5

HILO – LAHAINA, MAUI (B)
Wailea Resort Promenade – 10 km, rated 2+

After breakfast, we board a plane and head for “The Valley Isle” of Maui. Today’s trail explores a series of posh resorts along the leeward side of the island. We’ll enjoy dreamy panoramas of Lanai and the northern part of Maui across the turquoise waters of the South Pacific. The walk finishes along the beachfront walkway that runs the length of the resorts. Our final destination is Lahaina, where the ghosts of the raucous 19th century whaling era coexist peacefully, at last, with the more durable landmarks of missionary efforts.

Day 6

ACTIVITIES FROM LAHAINA (B)
Missionaries & Whalers Walk – 10 km, rated 1

This morning’s walk is an easy two-part stroll through the communities of Kaanapali (modern resort community) and Lahaina (historic whaling and missionary village). The two parts of the walk are connected by a short ride on the historic Sugar Cane Train. After disembarking the train in Lahaina, we’ll explore the many historical buildings that remain from the whaling and missionary era, a sharp contrast with the modern shops and restaurants along the waterfront. Following free time in Lahaina, our optional evening event is the Old Lahaina Luau (not included), an authentic evening of traditional Hawaiian food, music, and dance in a unique beachfront setting! Cost: $99

Day 7

ACTIVITIES FROM LAHAINA (B)

Today you’ll have the opportunity to relax in Lahaina or participate in an optional all-day excursion on the Road to Hana (not included). Though only 50 miles long, this road winds through dense tropical forest and over more than 50 single-lane bridges. We’ve found the scenery worth the drive, however, especially if you aren’t doing the driving! We’ll make stops at points of interest along the way, including the remote gravesite of celebrated aviator, Charles Lindbergh. Cost: $99

Day 8

DAY TRIP TO LANAI (B,L)
Lanai Pineapple Island Hike – 10 km, rated 3

It’s a bit early for whales, but keep your eyes peeled this morning as we cruise across their winter calving waters in the Lahaina Roads to the pineapple island of Lanai. This all-day excursion includes a round-trip ferry cruise, nature walk, lunch at a fun local eatery, and a unique opportunity to experience a more tranquil, less-visited face of Hawaii!

Day 9

ACTIVITIES IN LAHAINA - OR - OPTIONAL DAY TRIP TO MOLOKAI (B,D)

Today is devoted to experiencing some of that famed Hawaii “hang loose” time–simply soaking in the tropical laidback ambiance. But just in case you prefer still another all-Hawaiian adventure, we’re offering an optional flight-seeing trip to the island of Molokai. We’ll fly from Maui to the peninsula of Kalaupapa, made famous by the Belgian priest Father Damien, who devoted his life to improving the lives of the lepers banished here as outcasts from society in the 1800s. The memorable tour of this isolated settlement will be guided by one of the residents and includes panoramic views of some of the most impressive sea cliffs in Hawaii. Cost: To be announced

Later this evening, we’ll enjoy a fun and relaxing Farewell Dinner together along the beach on Maui.

Day 10

RETURN HOME FROM MAUI (B)

Our yuletide spirit has been refreshed and enriched by exploring the history, culture, and scenery of the Islands during our Christmas in Hawaii! After breakfast this morning, we'll say “Mele Kalikimaka” to new walking friends and return to the wintertime climes of North America, and our own celebrations of the Season back home.